The Top 10 Biggest Goals Since 2001.

Last nights post about the top ten non Frozen Four games in recent BC hockey history got me thinking, what are the top 10 goals scored in that same amount of time. Yes, there are thousands of goals to chose from but I think I have a good idea of what ones stand out. I bet if you thought about it, some come directly to mind. You don't even have to look too far back as we all remember Johnny G's goal in the final versus Ferris State and Billy Arnolds OT winner to beat Parker and the Terriers. The best player I have ever seen (I don't remember Gionta to well because I was too young) Nathan Gerbe scored some unbelievably clutch goals to help lead the 08 Eagles to a National Championship. So here it is, the top ten goals since the 2001 season.

1. Krys Kolanos' OT winner versus North Dakota in the 2001 championship. No if's, but's, or what if's. This is by far and away the biggest goal in the history of Boston College hockey. Krys Kolanos' OT winner is one of the great moments in BC athletics history along with Fluite's pass.

2. Johnny Gaudreau's goal in the 2012 championship versus Ferris State. Some may argue with this one but we're not talking about some 6'3 dominating senior that scored this goal. We're talking about a FRESHMAN that is smaller than I am on feet. Just sensational in every way. The best part ? He's coming back next year.

3. Ben Eaves' goal versus Michigan is the 2004 Northeast Regional final. This is a memorable one by a player that will always be remembered for his skill. The way Eaves scored it was just phenomenal. The Michigan fans in Manchester were just shocked beyond belief.

4. Billy Arnold's OT winner in the 2012 Beanpot versus archrival Boston University. Ok, how long did you think it was going to be until I brought one up against the Terriers ? Billy Arnold's goal will forever go down as the goal that officially ended the Terrier domination of the Beanpot and continued the amazing success of the Eagles.

5. Nathan Gerbes two goals/four points in the 2008 National Championship versus rival Notre Dame. To this day, I have never seen a player in college hockey that can basically carry a whole team to the top of the world. I mean think about it, in every big game that year Nathan Gerbe scored at least one goal. That game was the best of his BC career.

6. Chris Kreider's goal in the 2010 Beanpot versus archrival Boston University. Ok, this may bot be the absolute biggest goal in BC hockey history but the way it happend just sums up the wonderful career of Chris Kreider. He got the puck, turned on the jets, and flat out embarrassed BU defenseman Max Nicastro before putting the puck in the net.

7. Joe Whitney's OT goal in the 2008 Northeast regional final versus Miami. Like I said yesterday in the top ten games post, that goal was just one of many clutch ones in Joe Whitney's career at Boston College.

8. Nathan Gerbe's OT game winner in the first round of the 2008 Beanpot semifinals versus archrival Boston University. The goalie for BU on that night is still looking for the puck as I write. He doesn't know what happend to it. Anyways, that was certainly a great night to be an Eagle fan.

9. Every single goal in the 2006 beatdown of BU in Worcester. That was to this day, the happiest I have ever been as a BC hockey fan besides the Beanpot and National Championships. Brian Boyle's goal early on stands out.

10. Steve Whitney's goal versus Northeastern in the 2011 Hockey East semifinals. You don't see a play from college hockey get voted the #1 play of the day on Sports Center too often. Well, Steven Whitney made it happen with his highlight reel goal on NU's Chris Rawlings.

I am sure there are others that you guys would put on here instead of a couple I have. It is certainly an interesting discussion so let's hope we get some more next year.

 The Top 10 Biggest Goals in Hockey Since 2001

In the fast-paced world of hockey, moments of brilliance and sheer determination can define a player's legacy and leave a lasting impact on fans and the sport itself. Over the past two decades, the hockey world has witnessed countless unforgettable goals, each with its unique story and significance. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 biggest goals in hockey since 2001, from iconic playoff moments to game-changing goals that etched themselves into the annals of hockey history. Additionally, we'll address frequently asked questions (FAQs) to provide a comprehensive understanding of these extraordinary moments.

Section 1: Joe Sakic's 2001 Stanley Cup Winning Goal

Joe Sakic's memorable goal in Game 7 of the 2001 Stanley Cup Finals set the stage for a historic victory:

The Moment: In the final minutes of the third period, with the game tied, Sakic scored a power-play goal, securing the championship for the Colorado Avalanche.

Legacy: Sakic's leadership and clutch performance solidified his status as one of the game's greatest captains.

Section 2: Sidney Crosby's "Golden Goal" (2010 Olympics)

Sidney Crosby's overtime goal in the 2010 Winter Olympics captured the hearts of a nation:

The Context: In the gold medal game against the United States, Crosby's goal clinched victory for Team Canada on home ice.

National Pride: This goal remains an iconic moment in Canadian sports history, symbolizing the country's passion for hockey.

Section 3: Patrick Kane's Stanley Cup-Winning Goal (2010)

Patrick Kane's "invisible" goal during the 2010 Stanley Cup Finals is etched in Chicago Blackhawks' lore:

The Dramatic Finish: Kane's goal, scored in overtime, gave the Blackhawks their first Stanley Cup in 49 years.

Unconventional Celebration: Kane's initial disbelief and unique celebration added to the goal's mystique.

Section 4: Bobby Orr's Iconic Flying Goal (1970)

While not from 2001, Bobby Orr's 1970 Stanley Cup-winning goal remains a timeless classic:

The Legendary Dive: Orr's goal featured a memorable airborne dive after scoring, capturing the essence of pure joy.

Enduring Legacy: This goal is often regarded as one of the most iconic moments in NHL history.

Section 5: Paul Henderson's 1972 Summit Series Goal

Paul Henderson's historic goal in the 1972 Summit Series transcends borders:

Canada-Russia Rivalry: Henderson's series-winning goal symbolized the intensity of the Cold War-era hockey rivalry between Canada and the Soviet Union.

National Pride: Canadians still fondly remember Henderson's heroics as a symbol of their hockey dominance.

Section 6: Martin Gelinas' Controversial No-Goal (2004)

Martin Gelinas' controversial no-goal during the 2004 Stanley Cup Finals added intrigue to an already intense series:

Stanley Cup Drama: Gelinas' potential game-winning goal in triple overtime was initially waved off by officials, sparking debate and controversy.

Series Impact: The goal would have given the Calgary Flames a Stanley Cup victory, but the Tampa Bay Lightning went on to win the series.

Section 7: Ray Bourque's Long-Awaited Stanley Cup (2001)

Ray Bourque's emotional goal during the 2001 Stanley Cup Finals was a story of perseverance and fulfillment:

A Hall of Famer's Dream: After 22 seasons without a Stanley Cup, Bourque scored a crucial goal with the Colorado Avalanche, finally achieving his lifelong dream.

Emotional Release: The joy and emotion displayed by Bourque after the win became an enduring image in hockey history.

Section 8: Jarome Iginla's Golden Goal Assist (2002 Olympics)

While not a goal, Jarome Iginla's assist on the "Golden Goal" in the 2002 Winter Olympics deserves recognition:

Setting the Stage: Iginla's pass to Mario Lemieux in the gold medal game solidified his legacy as a clutch performer for Team Canada.

The Golden Goal: The play led to Lemieux's iconic game-winner, securing gold for Canada.

Section 9: Patrick Marleau's Overtime Playoff Winner (2021)

Patrick Marleau's playoff overtime goal in 2021 was a historic milestone:

Record-Breaking Moment: Marleau became the all-time leader in games played in the NHL, capping the occasion with an overtime goal.

Veteran Presence: Marleau's longevity and dedication to the game earned him a special place in NHL history.

Section 10: The "Finnish Flash" Teemu Selanne's Milestone Goal (2016)

Teemu Selanne's final NHL goal in 2016 marked the end of an illustrious career:

Farewell to a Legend: Selanne's goal in his last NHL game symbolized the conclusion of an extraordinary career that spanned over two decades.

Legacy of Excellence: Selanne's impact on the game and his farewell goal left an indelible mark on the hockey community.

Section 11: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) - Hockey's Biggest Goals

Let's address some common questions about these monumental goals in hockey:

What criteria determine the significance of a goal in hockey history?

The significance of a goal often depends on the context, impact on the game, and the player's legacy.

Are there other iconic goals from before 2001 that deserve recognition?

Absolutely, hockey history is replete with iconic goals, but this list focuses on those since 2001.

Do these goals still resonate with hockey fans today?

Many of these goals remain etched in the memories of fans and continue to be celebrated in the hockey community.

Section 12: Conclusion

The top 10 biggest goals in hockey since 2001 represent moments of triumph, perseverance, and sheer brilliance on the ice. These goals are more than just scores; they are defining moments that capture the essence of the sport and inspire future generations of hockey players and fans. As the game of hockey continues to evolve, new moments of greatness will undoubtedly join this list, enriching the sport's storied history even further.